KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- FASTag mandatory, non-compliance doubles toll fees from November 15, 2025.
- Cash payments at tolls will cost double the standard fee.
- Digital payments via UPI charged 1.25 times regular toll fee.
- FASTag reduces congestion, ensures seamless toll collection across India.
- Over 97% of toll transactions are digital, 7 crore FASTags issued.
Starting November 15, 2025, driving on India's National Highways without a valid FASTag will become costlier, even if you opt for digital payments. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has notified a revised toll fee structure aimed at cutting down cash transactions, reducing congestion, and pushing more people towards FASTag adoption. Check out all that's changing from November 15 and make sure you become a part of our 91Wheels WhatsApp Community to get such important updates at the earliest.
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FASTag New Rule: What's Changing?
Under the new rules, vehicles entering toll plazas without FASTag will no longer be treated equally, regardless of how they pay. Instead:
- Cash payments will attract double the standard toll fee.
- Digital payments (such as UPI) will be charged at 1.25 times the regular toll fee.
This means a car that would normally pay Rs. 100 through FASTag will pay Rs. 200 in cash or Rs. 125 via UPI.
Why This Move?
The government wants to discourage cash usage, which slows down toll plazas and causes long queues. By making digital payments slightly more expensive than FASTag but cheaper than cash, authorities hope to create a smoother transition for people who still haven't switched to electronic toll collection.
FASTag's Growing Role
Introduced in 2016 and made mandatory from February 2021, FASTag has now become the backbone of toll collection in India. It allows automatic fee deduction from a linked prepaid wallet or bank account, helping vehicles pass through toll gates seamlessly. According to NHAI data, more than 97% of toll transactions are already digital, with over 7 crore FASTags issued so far.
Benefits of FASTag
- Saves time with faster toll clearance.
- Prevents unnecessary penalties.
- Rechargeable online through apps like Paytm, PhonePe, banks, and the official MyFASTag app.
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Verdict
If you still rely on cash, your highway travel cost is about to double. Opting for UPI might feel lighter on the pocket but will still be more expensive than FASTag. The clear message from MoRTH is that FASTag remains the most cost-efficient and hassle-free option for smooth highway travel. So before November 15, make sure your FASTag is active, linked, and topped up - or be ready to pay extra every time you cross a toll booth.
